Police Unveil Youth Center in Reseda
The Los Angeles Police Department’s West Valley Division on Friday unveiled a showcase of its community policing effort, a substation and youth center created as a haven from the temptations of gangs and drugs.
The ceremony began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at a Reseda site that was little more than four quake-damaged storefronts just a couple of years ago.
Today, thanks to the efforts of LAPD Sgt. Joel Price, Police Activity League supporters and many donors, the facility is home to several offices, a kitchen, a computer laboratory and a multipurpose recreation room.
“This facility exemplifies our community policing spirit,” Mayor Richard Riordan told the assembled guests. “I see the faces of people who care about their community and are doing something about it.”
Citing the recreational and educational programs for children as “front-end intervention” against the lure of crime, LAPD Chief Willie L. Williams said the site shows the department’s willingness to extend itself into the lives of the city’s residents.
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